ALM UNDP

Summary:

BACKGROUND:

The primary aim of this project is to reduce the vulnerability of the population to climate change, including climate-related natural disasters. In this context, the Maldives government has selected to utilize the opportunity afforded through the LDC to, among other things, re-evaluate and improve its ‘Safer Island Strategy’.

The term ‘safe islands’ in the Maldives refers to a range of larger islands which should ultimately provide safe havens for people who are forced to migrate before or after extreme natural disasters. ‘Safe islands’ enable communities to sustain social and economic development during emergencies and disasters.

This will be achieved by providing ecologically safe zones and structures to mitigate the impact of climate change induced events such as storm surges, tidal swells, as well as have benefits in the context of other hazards such as tsunamis. In addition, elevated areas and buildings will be provided on ‘Safe islands’ to enable vertical evacuation, if necessary. These safe places are intended to provide all basic services in an emergency (health, communication, and transport infrastructure), and have a buffer stock of basic food and water. In the long-term, ‘safe islands’ are envisioned to provide voluntary temporary relocation options for Maldivians living in a more and more hazardous environment as a result of Sea-Level Rise (SLR).